We have been kayak guides in Croatia for more than 8 years and we organized kayaking tours in southern Croatia, near the city of Ploče. Life and Ventures moved on since then and became a Croatia Travel and Outdoor Portal, but we have never stopped kayaking. It’s still one of our most favorite outdoor activities and the favorite one when it comes to water activities in Croatia. This article will tell you all you need to know about kayak rental in Dubrovnik.
As much as we are connected with kayaking, we’re connected with Dubrovnik as well and we spend many days in it every year. As you visit Dubrovnik, you’ll notice that there are a lot of kayaking tours going around. These are a great way to experience the Old Town and its walls from a different perspective. Kayaking and Dubrovnik go hand in hand, and through kayaking you can explore some of the most famous coastal places near Dubrovnik.
When it comes to kayaking in Dubrovnik, you have 2 options – to join a guided tour or to rent a kayak. We’re going to discuss renting a kayak in Dubrovnik, but we’ll give you some recommendations on the best guided kayaking tours as well.
Why Rent a Kayak in Dubrovnik? Renting a kayak gives you freedom and it’s the best way to explore the coastline near Dubrovnik and visit all the famous places that are hard to reach via land. Here are a few things why renting a kayak in Dubrovnik is a great idea:
Freedom to Explore: Renting a kayak allows you to create your own itinerary, explore at your own pace.Access to Hidden Spots: Through kayaking, you’ll be able to visit secluded beaches, caves, and snorkeling spots that are not accessible from land.Budget-Friendly: Renting a kayak is often a more affordable option compared to booking a guided tour.
Where to Rent a Kayak in Dubrovnik Most of the kayaking tours in Dubrovnik are guided ones, but there are still places where you can rent a kayak and go exploring on your own. Here are a few main locations for renting a kayak in Dubrovnik.
1. Pile Gate Area
Location: Near one of the main entrances to Dubrovnik’s Old Town.Advantages: Easy access for kayaking outside the city walls and towards Lokrum Island.Price Range: Approx. €15-€25 for half a day.
2. Banje Beach
Location: East of the Old Town, the most famous beach in Dubrovnik.Best For: Great location if you want to go paddling along the coastline and explore nearby caves.Extras: Many rental providers offer snorkeling gear along with the kayak, so check whether you get one.
3. Zaton Bay
Location: A 15-minute drive from Dubrovnik in the Split direction.Why Go There: Calmer sea and beautiful coastline make it perfect for beginners and those who want to explore outside the Dubrovnik.
Types of Kayak Rentals Available When it comes to the types of kayaks you can rent in Dubrovnik, expect to get the plastic sit-on-top kayak, which is perfect for recreational kayaking. These can fit one or 2 persons in most cases.
Single Kayaks: Perfect for solo adventurers. Prices start from €15 for a half-day rental.Double Kayaks: The best option for couples visiting Dubrovnik or those who want to paddle together. Prices for this type are around €20-€30 for a half-day.Full-Day Rentals: If you want to go on a full day exploration of waters near Dubrovnik, expect to pay €30-€50 . Day kayaking explorations are a great way to escape the crowds in Dubrovnik.
Self-Guided Kayak Rental vs. Guided Tours Not sure whether you want to book a guided kayak tour in Dubrovnik or just want to rent a kayak? This comparison might help you. If you are a beginner and never tried kayaking before, we suggest booking a guided kayaking tour that is accompanied by a certified guide.
Feature Self-Guided Kayak Rental Guided Kayak Tour Cost Lower (Approx. €15-€30) Higher (€30-€50) Flexibility Total freedom to explore Follow set itinerary Local Knowledge Limited to what you research Includes a knowledgeable guide Safety Requires good kayaking skills Guide ensures safety and support Included Equipment Basic kayak and paddle Kayak, paddle, life jacket, often snacks, and snorkeling gear
Best Kayaking Routes in Dubrovnik Wherever you decide to go kayaking in Dubrovnik, you can’t be wrong and you’re going to stumble upon some great locations along the way. Still, here are a few of the most famous kayaking routes in Dubrovnik.
1. Around the City Walls
Experience: Kayak along Dubrovnik’s walls and see the city from a different perspective.Duration: 1-2 hoursTip: Best done in the early morning to avoid boat traffic and to enjoy kayaking on the calmer sea.
2. Lokrum Island
Distance: About 600 meters from Dubrovnik’s coast.What to See: Crystal-clear waters, peacocks, and the Dead Sea (a saltwater lake on the island).Recommendation: Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world around Lokrum.
3. Betina Cave Beach
Access: One of the most unique beaches in Dubrovnik that is only reachable by kayak or boat.Highlights: This hidden beach is located within a sea cave and it’s the perfect spot for swimming and relaxing.
4. Zaton Bay
Perfect For: Beginners looking for calmer waters.Additional Activities: Combine kayaking with a stop at local restaurants with seafood specialties.
What to Bring for a Kayaking Trip Usually, when you rent a kayak in Dubrovnik, you will get a kayak, paddle, safety vest, and a waterproof bag. Don’t rent a kayak if you’re not getting a safety vest and don’t take it off during kayaking. Not so long ago there was a serious kayaking accident in Dubrovnik when the group went kayaking on large waves and in bad weather. Avoid going kayaking when the weather is not good or the waves are big. Here are some things to bring on a kayaking tour in Dubrovnik:
Waterproof Bag: To keep your phone, camera, and valuables safe. You will usually get this from the kayak rental agency.Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential to protect you from the strong sun.Water Shoes: Helpful if you will go exploring rocky beaches and caves.Snacks and Water: Crucial for longer paddling trips in Dubrovnik.Snorkeling Gear: There are many great spots for snorkeling around Dubrovnik, especially around Lokrum Island.
Tips for Kayaking in Dubrovnik Before you proceed with the kayak rental in Dubrovnik, follow these few steps:
Check the Weather: Avoid kayaking on windy days when the sea can be rough.Wear a Life Jacket: Even if you are a strong swimmer, never take your life vest off.Stay Hydrated: Bring enough water since you’re going to be under the sun for a long time.Avoid Crowded Areas: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to paddle. Expect calmer sea in the morning and magical sunsets in the afternoon.
When is the Best Time to Kayak in Dubrovnik? You can go kayaking in Dubrovnik at almost any part of the year, and each of them offers different conditions on the sea. For example, there will be some traffic on the sea if you go kayaking in the summer. Also, the sea is colder for swimming when kayaking in the shoulder season periods. Here’s what to expect:
Spring (April to June): Perfect conditions, fewer tourists, and mild weather. The sea might still be chilly in April and May.Summer (July to August): Warmest water temperatures in Dubrovnik, more crowds and boats on the sea.Autumn (September to October): Warm sea and once again less crowded, a perfect mix.
Before you rent a kayak in Dubrovnik Kayak rental in Dubrovnik is a great way to experience this gem of the Croatian south from a different perspective. When visiting Dubrovnik, we suggest embarking on the kayaking tour. If you have been kayaking before, then renting a kayak in Dubrovnik is a great option. If you haven’t tried this great activity yet, we suggest booking a guided tour for extra safety and insights from a guide. Just remember, don’t go kayaking during the bad weather since the sea can get rough in Dubrovnik.
Enjoy Dubrovnik from a kayak!
